Hike to Panther Creek Falls

This 130 ft. unique waterfall is a hidden gem in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. It's a short, less than 0.25 mile hike down to the viewing platform.

This hidden beauty is just north of Carson, Washington. Watch for Panther Creek campground signs and follow the twisting road about 7 miles to a rock quarry and park there. The trail begins just off the road about 50 yards back - keep an eye out for signs for the trailhead and listen for the falls. From here it's a short walk to a wooden viewing platform with a well maintained trail. It's a nice shady area and a good spot to picnic. There are no garbage cans, so make sure you gather everything you bring in and don't leave anything behind. This is the family and pet friendly part of the hike.

If you're feeling adventurous, hike/scramble/climb your way down to the base of the falls if you can do it safely. It is very steep and slippery and more for the advanced hiker. 200 ft. downstream is another spectacular waterfall and just as difficult to get to as the first one. Be cautious and keep your children and pets at home if you're venturing to this waterfall.

Check the USDA Forrest Service website for more information on Panther Creek Falls Trail #137.

Falls Coordinates: N45º 52.031', W121º 49.688'

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Tags

Photography

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Scenic

Waterfall

Photos

Reviews

Assuming weather conditions allow you to safely descend to the base of Panther Creek Falls and view the falls from "The Cauldron", do it. :) It is an amazing experience to be down there and have waterfalls in surround sound. It is tough to not get a great photo - that is just a bonus to the experience. Pray for an overcast day so the light diffuses. If you are going just for photography, try and go early in the day (8:30-10:30 a.m. or so).

It took a while to find the trailhead because "Falls-->" was etched onto the ground. But the waterfall was quite stunning. It reminds me of Ramona Falls, but this is by far much more grand and is only a quick walk. Definitely a must visit.